Introduction P hotograPhy is a universal language capable of commu- nicating to a wide audience. But photography also is a very personal affair. No two of us approach it exactly the same way. You bring to bear your own personal experiences and influences every time you push the camera's shutter-release button. Each image captures a Those committed to improving their skills and techniques may enjoy lifelong partnerships with their cameras, producing photographs to be proud of. If you're persistent and willing to push yourself to achieve loftier goals, your images will begin to reveal a personal style all your own. shapes, colors, and shadows-- coalesce in apparent disarray. By raising your awareness of the orderly way these elements fit together, you'll realize the strongest way of seeing. Learning the basics of good composition helps you recognize the essential components and design artistic arrangements from the chaos. You'll produce